Coming to Kota Kinabalu for the first time and have no idea where to go or what to do?
We have asks around and concluded that for the very least you’ve got to experience:
the highlands (the closest you can get to the mountain)
the beaches
the islands
the humble city, Kota Kinabalu
Here, if you don’t mind considering, is a tried and tested itinerary, for the kind of travellers who got so little time, but indeed, so much to do!
Day 1 (Thursday)
Take an Early Flight
They say the early bird catches the worm, and when it comes to travelling we suggest you take an early flight so that you will be able to make the most of your trip.
Grab a Taxi
Public transportation from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is limited. The best way to get to your hotel or next stop is by taxi. Be sure to check the price before you get in as taxis in the city do not run by meter.
Check-In at the Hotel
The check-in time for most hotels in Malaysia is 2:00pm. If you arrive earlier, don’t worry as most accommodations will allow you to leave your bags at the reception until your room is ready. Haven’t book hotel yet? We have some hotel recommendation for you.
Buy Sim Card
At almost every street corner, there will be a shop selling prepaid sim cards. Purchasing one would be helpful for you to maintain connected during your trip.
Time to ca-noodle!
While waiting for your room, grab yourself a hearty local lunch. Noodles are a popular staple in Kota Kinabalu and if you are staying in the city centre, there are so many local kopitiams (coffee shops) for you to choose from.
Ngiu chap, tom yam, Tuaran mee, laksa, sang nyuk mian and fish noodles are popular options.
We also published lists of foods and restaurants at Kota Kinabalu.
Take a Heritage Walking Tour
After all the travelling, we would recommend that you take it easy on the first day and explore the city. Take a heritage walk by yourself and visit sites such as the Atkinson Clock Tower, Australian Place and North Borneo War Memorial.
Atkinson Clock Tower
Australian Place
North Borneo War Memorial
Visit the Handicraft Market
The Handicraft Market is a great place for you to look for souvenirs and local handicraft. Be sure to haggle and get the best price possible!
Freshen Up
After all that walking under the sun, you can go back to the hotel and take a short nap or freshen up before you head back out.
Tanjung Aru Beach
KK is famous for its gorgeous sunset and the best place to view the sun go down is at the Tanjung Aru Beach. Take a stroll along the beach then head over to the food court to enjoy fresh coconut water and a simple local dinner with items such as grilled fish, barbecue chicken wings and satay.
Wondering what else to do if Tanjung Aru is closed for now? Here are some recommended things to do at Kota Kinabalu.
Day 2 (Friday)
Take a bus to Ranau
Check out from your hotel and head to the Padang Merdeka Terminal to catch a bus to Ranau. The bus ride will take about 90 minutes so we suggest you take the 8:00am bus and get there in time for breakfast. The bus fare is about MYR20 per head.
Prefer pick up? We suggest joining some day tours packages here: day tour packages at Kota Kinabalu.
Stop at Nabalu Town
Nabalu Town is a good place to stop over to get a light breakfast and snacks. The town has rows of stalls selling various local products such as fresh produce, handicraft and food.
Visit Poring Hot Springs
Make your way to Poring Hot Springs and spend the afternoon exploring the Poring canopy walkways and different trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls.
You can also take a dip in the pool or enjoy a hot bath at one of the open air or private tubs. You can have a simple lunch at the cafe here.
Go to Kinabalu Park
On your way back to the city, make a pit stop at Kinabalu Park. It is home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu. You can explore the many trails and gardens in the park, while enjoying the cool breeze and soaking up the amazing view.
Head Back to the City
After you are done, hail a bus from the roadside of the main entrance of the park and head back to Kota Kinabalu. It will take you the same amount of time to get back to the city and the bus will drop you off at the same bus station.
Enjoy a Seafood Dinner
Instead of going back to the hotel and coming back out again, why not just go straight to dinner?
KK is famous for its fresh and affordable seafood and a great option to enjoy a scrumptious seafood dinner is at the Filipino Night Market (located opposite the Kinabalu Hyatt Regency).
If you prefer to dine at a proper eatery, you can try Welcome Seafood Restaurant.
Day 3 (Saturday)
Island Hopping
Head to the Jesselton Point and purchase your tickets to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, which is about a 20-minute speedboat ride from the jetty.
The park consists of five islands and you can choose to stay at one or go island hopping.
Besides swimming, you can also snorkel, go sea walking, parasail and sign up for other sea sports. The last boat to leaves the island at 4:00pm.
Freshen Up
After you back to the city, you can head to your hotel and fresh up. Then head back out again in time to view the sunset.
Dinner at the KK Waterfront
Another great place to view the sun go down is at the KK Waterfront. There are many eateries and pubs located on the strip. You can enjoy an ice-cold beer and some delicious grub while taking in the beauty of the amber sky.
Day 4 (Sunday)
Explore Gaya Street Market
Wake up early in the morning and head to the Gaya Street Market, which is only held on Sundays. The street will be closed off and filled with an array of stalls selling souvenirs, food, fresh produce, pets and everything under the sun. Operating hours are from 6:00am – 1:00pm.
Have Breakfast at Kedai Kopi Yee Fung
While you are exploring Gaya Street, stop by at this famous coffee shop for its signature Laksa Noodles and Ngiu Chap (Beef Noodles). Wash down your meal with a refreshing glass of Kit Chai Ping (iced calamansi juice with sour plum).
Goodbye!
The check out time for most hotels in Malaysia is at 12:00pm. Your best option to get a ride to KKIA is by taxi. Remember to check your flight details and get your taxi driver to send you to the correct terminal.
Want More? Check our Kota Kinabalu Insider Guide here.
Quick Summary: 4D3N Kota Kinabalu Itinerary [WEEKEND GETAWAY]
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Morning
Atkinson Clock Tower
Australian Place
North Borneo War Memorial
Handicraft Market
Nabalu Town
Island Hopping
Gaya Street Market
Kedai Kopi Yee Fung
Lunch
Afternoon
Tanjung Aru Beach
Poring Hot Springs
Kinabalu Park
Dinner
Seafood Dinner
KK Waterfront
Evening
The post How To Spend 4 Days 3 Nights at Kota Kinabalu City appeared first on Path Finder City.